PM to spend weekend seeking better national image

At the afternoon meeting with diplomats, representatives of various organisations and media professionals at Government House, Abhisit and some of his Cabinet members will talk about what happened and the details of the rehabilitation plan for Thais and foreigners affected by last week's riots, government spokesman Panitan Wattanayagorn said yesterday.

The prime minister would welcome all ideas and suggestions from his foreign guests about what should be done, as part of the government's efforts to restore Thailand's image.

Although this is a long holiday weekend, the meeting could not be postponed because of the censure debate next week against Abhisit and four other Cabinet members.

Some foreign diplomats were seeking personal discussions with Abhisit after Saturday's meeting, but Abhisit would likely assign some ministers for that smaller gathering.

After the meeting, Abhisit would hold a question-and-answer session with local and foreign media, Panitan added.

Meanwhile, several heads of foreign missions paid calls on senior officials at Government House.

US Ambassador Eric John met with Deputy Prime Minister Suthep Thaugsuban and left after two hours.

Suthep, who is in charge of security affairs and heads the Centre for the Resolution of the Emergency Situation, would only describe the result of his talks with the US envoy as "good".

Later in the afternoon, the Japanese ambassador had an appointment with the deputy premier at his office. A source said both visits were informal.

The ambassadors of Belgium and Australia dropped by the office of Korbsak Sabhavasu, the prime minister's secretary-general.